New Bill Aims to Protect Laboring Women

Imagine being in active labor, rushing to the hospital for care, only to be turned away. Sadly, this happened to Mercedes Wells, who gave birth in her car after being sent home from an Indiana hospital. Now, inspired by her harrowing experience, a new bill is making its way to Congress to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Introducing the WELLS Act

On November 25, 2025, Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly announced the introduction of the Women Expansion for Learning and Labor Safety Act, or the WELLS Act. This crucial piece of legislation aims to mandate that hospitals offering obstetric, emergency, or labor and delivery services cannot turn away patients who are showing signs of active labor. The bill is a direct response to the viral story of Mercedes Wells, who was reportedly told to go home because she wasn’t fully dilated, only to deliver her baby minutes later in her truck.

“Mercedes’s courage to speak out and push for change knows no bounds,” Kelly stated. “Her bravery and advocacy will help other moms receive the care and treatment they deserve.” The WELLS Act seeks to establish a “Safe Discharge Labor Plan” for any patient exhibiting labor symptoms, requiring clear clinical justification for discharge, assessment of travel distance, and confirmation that the patient understands the instructions.

Broader Application and Bias Training

The protections outlined in the WELLS Act wouldn’t be limited to traditional hospitals. The bill also extends to federally qualified health centers, rural health clinics, tribal health programs, emergency medical services agencies, and community-based birthing centers. This ensures a wider reach for improved patient safety.

Furthermore, the legislation addresses systemic issues by requiring racial bias training for healthcare professionals. Rep. Kelly highlighted the importance of this component, stating, “It’s clear that what happened to Mercedes isn’t an isolated incident, nor is it the first time a Black woman’s pain has been ignored.” The bill is expected to be formally introduced once the House reconvenes after the Thanksgiving break.

Championing Maternal Health Initiatives

Rep. Kelly, who is currently running for the U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. Dick Durbin, has a history of advocating for maternal health. She has previously championed initiatives like the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act, passed in 2022, and reintroduced the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness Act in 2021. Her commitment to ensuring women’s voices are heard in healthcare settings is a driving force behind her legislative efforts.

Mercedes Wells and her husband were present at the bill’s announcement, expressing their support for Kelly’s work. This legislation represents a significant step towards addressing disparities and ensuring better outcomes for mothers and newborns across the country.